Bobby G – Google

Unlike some reviewers, I really like how Annika breaks the fourth wall and talks to the audience - a great device for sharing more about who she is and how she thinks and feels. My issue is that Nicola Walker’s skilful acting, which creates so much depth to Annika’s character and brings to life some excellent script writing during those moments, doesn’t sit comfortably or believably with the rest of the programme. It’s like a production of two halves; proper drama with sophisticated humour combined with daytime cosy-crime with unfeasible (and at times almost laughable) plot lines, where yet another body is found and the murder is quickly solved. Consequently Nicola Walker seems almost wasted and somewhat out of place in what is generally a formulaic, slightly corny programme that seems to not quite know what it wants to be. For more authenticity the series would perhaps benefit from featuring just a couple of stories maximum with each story told over several episodes, as this would bring the opportunity for more depth and realism. Overall it’s a great premise with some lovely writing and I really do like Annika’s character, along with the issues around her daughter etc, but somehow the whole thing doesn’t quite hold water (not great for a Marine Homicide Unit.) I’ll definitely complete the series as it’s a bit of fun escapism and I like the cast but I can’t help noticing the missed opportunity here for a better drama worthy of it’s main actor.